South Carolina Will Offer Free HIV Testing on Sept. 29
Residents can access free, confidential testing and counseling as part of the seventh annual PrEP Awareness Week.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Sexual Health
Live Poll
Would you utilize free community health testing services if they were available in your area?
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) will offer free and confidential HIV and STD testing at most local health departments on September 29, 2026. This initiative is designed to increase public knowledge about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as a tool for HIV prevention.
Why it matters
Expanding access to testing and education on PrEP helps residents make informed decisions about their sexual health and HIV prevention strategies. The campaign focuses on normalizing these services for both the general community and college students across the state.
This state-led outreach initiative marks the seventh annual PrEP Awareness Week, providing testing and education services throughout September. The efficacy of PrEP as a preventative measure—whether administered as a pill or an injection—is well-documented for reducing HIV risk post-exposure.
The players
South Carolina Department of Public Health
The state agency responsible for public health oversight, disease prevention, and the management of HIV testing initiatives.
The details
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, functions by preventing the HIV virus from establishing a permanent infection within the body if exposure occurs. By providing consistent access to medical counseling and confidential testing, the state aims to bridge the gap between clinical providers and at-risk populations. Appointments for these services can be secured by calling 1-855-472-3432 or by utilizing the department's web chat feature.
Timeline
September 2026: Outreach events occur on college campuses across South Carolina.
September 29, 2026: Free testing is available at most local health departments.
Health Landscape
This initiative represents a localized effort to align with national benchmarks for HIV testing and prophylaxis awareness. By increasing outreach, the program serves as a critical component in the broader regional strategy to reduce infection rates through clinical surveillance and prevention.
Residents interested in preventative care should consider booking a confidential appointment to discuss their specific risk factors with a qualified health professional. If you have concerns about your sexual health status, it is worth discussing the benefits of PrEP and testing frequency with your doctor.
The takeaway
Accessing regular, confidential testing is a fundamental habit for proactive sexual health management. Residents are encouraged to call 1-855-472-3432 to schedule their appointment ahead of the September 29 testing event.
Further reading
For additional information on regional initiatives, visit the Sexual Health section.
More information
To review eligibility or find a testing site near you, visit the DPH PrEP week information portal.
Live Poll
Would you utilize free community health testing services if they were available in your area?
